so would i use 7 and 1, for example would i do 7x-1= -7 (i know that wouldn't fit but is it the correct way of doing it?)

You have 3 and 1.
You have 7 and 1.

-Take one number from the top and one number from the bottom.
-Pair them together and multiply them.
-There will be 2 numbers left unselected.
-Pair them together and multiply them.
-See if you can add them or subtract them to obtain 4
-If you can, place each paired number in an opposite bracket. You know which values are "stuck" to a so then you just need to work out the signs.

Sep 30th 2011, 08:37 AM

andyboy179

Re: Quacky's Guide to Factoring a Quadratic

7-3=4 so that would be it and y= -7 or -3

Sep 30th 2011, 08:39 AM

Quacky

Re: Quacky's Guide to Factoring a Quadratic

Quote:

Originally Posted by andyboy179

7-3=4 so that would be it and y= -7 or -3

We know it's

Finish it up. Which numbers go in which brackets? Read through what I said above again if you get confused.